Redmi Note 8 and Redmi Note 8T: what are the differences and which one is better to buy?

Introduction: Why Comparisons Are Still Relevant

Even 4 years after the release of the Redmi Note 8 and Redmi Note 8T remain some of the most popular budget smartphones in the secondary market. These models have become legendary due to the balance of price and specs, but many still confuse them with each other. The difference between the devices is not obvious at first glance – both have similar designs, 48-megapixel cameras and the same screens.

In this article, we will discuss in detail 10 main differences between the Redmi Note 8 and Redmi Note. 8T, And you'll learn whether to overpay for the T version, what trade-offs you'll have to make when you buy the base model, and what to look for when you choose a used device. FAQ-A block with answers to the most frequent questions of users.

Processor and performance: who is faster?

Both models are based on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chipset, but here lies the first nuance. Redmi Note 8 uses a standard version of the processor with clock speeds up to 2.0 GHz, while Redmi Note 8T received a slightly optimized modification with improved energy efficiency.

• 🔋 Longer battery life is required 8T for the same tasks (difference) ~5-7%)
• 🎮 More stable. FPS in games on medium settings (for example, in PUBG Mobile)
• 🔄 Less trottling with long loads (heating on the 3-5°C below)

The difference is minimal in benchmarks: AnTuTu 8 both score about 180-190 thousand points, but in real use, the Redmi Note 8T feels smoother, especially when multitasking – switching between 5+ applications.

It’s important to understand that both chipsets are already obsolete for modern games at maximum settings. For example, Genshin Impact on these devices only runs at minimum quality with an FPS ~20-25. But for everyday tasks (social networks, YouTube, navigation), performance is enough with a margin.

2.NFC: The main difference between the modern user

The only hardware difference that cannot be compensated for software is the NFC module in the Redmi Note 8T. In the base model of the Redmi Note 8, this chip is missing, which makes it unsuitable for:

• 💳 Contactless payments (Google Pay, SberPay, Mir Pay)
• 🚇 Subway/transport fares (where supported) NFC)
• 🔑 Uses in smart locks and access control systems
• 🎫 Label readings (for example, in museums or shops)

This is a critical difference if you're used to paying with a phone. In 2026, the lack of NFC makes the Redmi Note 8 a less versatile device, while in the Redmi Note 8T, the module supports all modern standards, including HCE (Host Card Emulation) for virtual cards.

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Before buying, check for NFC through the Settings menu → Connected Devices → NFC. On some firmware, this item may be hidden – use the search by settings.

⚠️ Note: Some vendors claim that NFC You can add software or external accessories. It's a myth. NFC It is sewn into the motherboard, and its absence in the Redmi Note 8 cannot be fixed.

3 Cameras: Same on paper, different in reality

At first glance, the cameras on the devices are identical:

- Basic module: 48 MP (Samsung GM1, f/1.79)

- Ultrashirik: 8 MP (120°, f/2.2)

- Macro: 2 MP (f/2.4)

- Depth sensor: 2 MP (f/2.4)

However, the Redmi Note 8T uses updated camera software with improved processing algorithms, which in practice is expressed in:

For example, when shooting against the sun, the Redmi Note 8 often burns out light areas, while the 8T retains more detail in the lights, a difference that is particularly noticeable when shooting documents or landscapes.

4. Battery and charging: who lives longer?

Both models are equipped with 4,000 mAh batteries, but there are three key points:

1. Fast charging: Both support 18W, but complete with the Redmi Note 8T comes a better power supply with better current stabilization.
2. Software optimization: The 8T features the “Adaptive Battery” feature, which analyzes user habits, work better.
3. Battery wear: In 2026, Redmi Note 8 batteries are often found with a capacity of 70-75% of the original, whereas the 8T this figure is usually higher.

According to the results of tests under the same conditions of use:

Redmi Note 8: ~6.5 hours of screen (SOT) at mixed load

Redmi Note 8T: ~7-7.5 screen hours (SOT)

⚠️ Warning: When buying a used device, be sure to check the battery status through the engineering menu (#4636## → "Battery information") or applications like AccuBattery, with a capacity below 80%, a bargaining chip.

5. Software: MIUI and Updates

Both models were originally shipped with MIUI 10 based on Android 9 Pie, but their fates diverged:

• 📱 Redmi Note 8: The latest official update — MIUI 12.5 (Android 10) Unofficially available MIUI 13 through custom firmware.
• 📱 Redmi Note 8T: got MIUI 12.5 Enhanced (Android 11) and still supported by some custom ROM Android 12 based.

This means that:

Redmi Note 8T features new MIUI features such as Super Wallpaper and improved Game Mode.

Redmi Note 8 does not support some modern apps (for example, the latest versions of Google Maps require Android 11+).

Both models will not receive official safety updates after 2023.

Reset to factory settings|Update the firmware to the latest version|Check it out. IMEI originality|Install an alternative launcher (e.g. Nova)|Disable unnecessary system applications-->

For enthusiasts, you can install LineageOS 19 (Android 12) or Pixel Experience on both devices, but this will require unlocking the bootloader, which will void the warranty (if it is still valid).

6.Design and Ergonomics: The Little Things That Matter

Externally, smartphones are almost identical, but there are several nuances:

In practice:

Redmi Note 8T is better in hand due to the matte design options.

The camera in the Redmi Note 8 is stronger, which is why the device “swings” on the table.

- The 3.5mm headphone jack is available in both models, but in the 8T it is more ergonomically located.

Important for buying cases: despite the same dimensions, the camera cutout in the Redmi Note 8T is slightly wider, so the cases are not always interchangeable.

7.The price in the secondary market: is it worth overpaying?

As of 2026, the average prices in the secondary market are as follows:

• 💰 Redmi Note 8 (4/64 GB): 6 000 — 8 000 ₽
• 💰 Redmi Note 8 (6/128 GB): 8 000 — 10 000 ₽
• 💰 Redmi Note 8T (3/32 GB): 7 500 — 9 000 ₽
• 💰 Redmi Note 8T (4/64 GB): 9 000 — 11 000 ₽

Difference between 1,500 and 2,000 ₽ Redmi Note 8T justified if you need:

NFC for contactless payments

- More stable camera.

- Best battery optimization

- Matte case (in the version of Space Black)

If these features are not critical, the Redmi Note 8 remains a great option for basic tasks, the main thing is to carefully check the status of the battery and screen when buying.

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When buying a used Xiaomi, always ask for a check or box – this is the only way to check the originality of the device and the activation date (important for warranty).

8. Alternatives in 2026: Should these models be considered?

Despite all the advantages, Redmi Note 8/8T in 2026 lose to modern public sector in several ways:

• ⚡ No. 5G — Limitation of future networks
• 🔄 Obsolete. USB Type-C 2.0 (no fast data transfer)
• 📶 Weak Wi-Fi 4 (No 5GHz support in some regions)
• 🔒 No official security updates

If budget allows, consider more modern alternatives:

- Redmi Note 12 (from 15,000) ₽) — s AMOLED-screen 5G

- POCO M5 (13,000 ₽) — helio-processor G99 and stereo speakers

- Realme 9i (14,000 ₽) — with a 90Hz screen and the best camera

However, if you want the most budget smartphone for calls, social networks and navigation – Redmi Note 8/8T is still a great choice for your money.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions